The Crank File: What I’m Reading This Week – 3/8/2017

Hello comic book fans and welcome back to another episode of the Crank File, the only place on the web that gave up being clever for lent. Every Tuesday I give you a glimpse at my new comics reading pile and let you know what I’m excited about. Another glorious Wednesday is upon us, so here’s what I’m reading this week.

The Top of the Pile: Low #16

Publisher: ImageWords: Rick RemenderArt: Greg Tocchini

What it is: NEW STORY ARC! ‘OUTER ASPECTS OF INNER ATTITUDES,’ Part One-As a gladiator, Marik Caine brought the light of hope into the one of the darkest corners of the ocean before that darkness swallowed him whole. Now, a new hero arises from the fighting pits of Poluma to carry on Marik’s legacy.

Why we love it: One of my favorite Image comics is back from a scheduled break and I’ve been dying to know where the story goes after last issue’s heart-breaker ending. Low is classic Remender, a story of optimism, family, honor and self-sacrifice, all told while pushing the main characters through the proverbial meat-grinder. Not for the faint of heart nor the small of mind, Low is high-art in low-brow format.

The Mainstream One: Action Comics #975

Publisher: DCWords: Dan JurgensArt: Doug Mahnke

What it is: ‘MILD MANNERED’ part one! The road to ‘Superman: Reborn’ starts here! With Superman and Lex Luthor back on Earth, the Man of Steel turns his attention to uncovering the mystery of the human Clark Kent living and working in Metropolis. But there’s something off about this guy, and Superman better figure out just what that is, before it’s too late!

Why we like it: I’m totally sucked into this Rebirth mystery. I have a theory that explains the Clark Kent/Superman conundrum. It’s too long winded to spell out here, but it involves Crisis on Infinite Earths, Watchmen, Flashpoint, the New 52 and Darkseid Wars.

The Indie One: Copperhead #11

Publisher: ImageWords: Jay FaerberArt: Drew Moss

What it is: NEW STORY ARC! Critically acclaimed COPPERHEAD returns with new artist DREW MOSS! Sheriff Clara Bronson’s past and present collide as an old friend arrives in town while Clara investigates the murder of Copperhead’s mayor.

Why we like it: I honestly did not expect to see another issue of Copperhead, so this is a pleasant surprise. I was really enjoying this series before it went on extended hiatus. The last issue, issue #10, was release all the way back in October. Of 2015. Copperhead returns Wednesday and will hopefully be able to stick on a regular release schedule with new artist, Drew Moss. An artist named Drew is as amusing as a quarterback named Chuck.

The #1 One: Grass Kings #1

Publisher: Boom!Words: Matt KindtArt: Tyler Jenkins

What it is: From The New York Times bestselling writer Matt Kindt (Mind MGMT) and Peter Panzerfaust artist Tyler Jenkins comes a rural mystery series chronicling the tragic lives of the Grass Kings, three brothers and rulers of a trailer park kingdom, a fiefdom of the hopeless and lost, of the desperate poor seeking a promised land. Eldest brother Robert leads a grief-stricken life, having lost his daughter to a tragic accident, followed by his wife disappearing one morning never to return. When an enigmatic young woman named Maria flees to their community in search of safe haven, Robert takes her in. Will his decision lead to ruin and retribution dooming the Kingdom? Perfect for fans of True Detective Season One or Scalped. Oversized, prestige format first issue featuring 30 pages of story!

Why we like it: Matt Kindt is one of those creators that I will always check out when they put out new stuff. From his insane, sci-fi Dark Horse titles to his insane super hero work at Valiant, the man never fails to deliver something fresh and interesting.

The One I’m Buying for the Cover: Wonder Woman #18

What it is: ‘GODWATCH’ part two! Godwatch grows, and Diana has her first encounter with the ghost in the machine known as Dr. Cyber!

Why we like it: Jenny Frison has been knocking it out of the park for Wonder Woman since issue #7, but there’s something about Wundy’s pose on this cover that evokes the same iconic feeling as Brian Bollard’s cover to Wonder Woman vol. 2 #72. Insta-classic.

That’s all I got this week. Let me know what you’re checking out in the comments. Until next time, carpe comics!